Cryosphere

About

Cryosphere is a world of ice; a world of neutral tones of white and black where little life survives in the extreme cold and, paradoxically, extreme dryness. This work attempts to recreate the feeling and emotions of Antarctica, starting with a massive eruption of sound in the opening two bars, the energy of which subsides slowly into a peaceful world of subtle, pale colour. In Antarctica one feels as if one is experiencing the aftermath of huge disruption, of massive forces, which have come together in awesome strength but have now settled and become (temporarily) covered in a soothing blanket of white. Of course, there is nothing soothing about this blanket - it comprises layer upon layer of ice, continually in a state of flux as the massive ice sheets move under the enormous strain. Antarctica is peaceful and energetic, beautiful and brutal, empty and yet eerily full. This work attempts to draw some of these ideas together and to capture a part of the essence that is the earth's last true great wilderness. I am indebted to Antarctica New Zealand for the opportunity to travel to Antarctica and gain the inspiration essential for the creation of my work.

Patrick Shepherd